Iranian authorities detain and torture family of Kurdish activist Karo Rasouli, forcing confessions over alleged Israel links
Hengaw – Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Khedr Rasouli, a former political prisoner, and Klara Rasouli, the father and sister of exiled Kurdish political activist Karo Rasouli—a senior member of the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan—have been arrested by Iranian intelligence forces in Mahabad. According to reports, both were subjected to severe torture and coerced into making false confessions, alleging espionage for Israel.
Information received by the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights confirms that 69-year-old Khedr Rasouli and 37-year-old Klara Rasouli, residents of Mahabad, were arrested 12 days ago. Their condition is reported to be deeply concerning.
A source familiar with the case stated that the two were detained in Mahabad and later transferred to a detention facility operated by the Intelligence Department in Urmia.
Media outlets affiliated with Iranian security agencies have announced plans to soon release a video of Khedr Rasouli’s forced confession. The footage, recorded under torture, shows him speaking about his relationship with his son and allegedly admitting to sharing sensitive military information with Israel.
Khedr Rasouli has previously spent a total of five years in Iranian prisons on political charges. Following the “Woman, Life, Freedom” (Jin, Jiyan, Azadi) movement, he was repeatedly threatened and summoned by authorities.
It is important to note that Rasouli has undergone two heart surgeries. His detention under conditions of torture and extreme pressure has raised serious concerns among his family about his health and well-being.
Khedr and Klara Rasouli were arrested on Thursday, July 10, 2025, during a raid on their family home in Mahabad. According to reports, the arrest was carried out with verbal abuse and intimidation by intelligence agents.
